What every pregnant woman needs to know about over-the-counter drugs

Not all medicines are off-limit during pregnancy CREDIT: PA

 BY Radhika Sanghani-3 JUNE 2016

Pregnant women are often given so much conflicting advice about what’s off-limits for them – from alcohol to cheese and ice-cream – they end up avoiding anything that isn't certified organic and natural.

But they don’t always have to - especially when it comes to over-the-counter drugs.

A new study published in the International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy has found up to three quarters of pregnant women are suffering in silence from minor injuries because they wrongly fear that over-the-counter drugs could harm their babies.

Researchers found that women are so confused about conflicting advice on medications such as paracetamol, ibuprofen and antihistamines that they are steering clear of them altogether – sometimes unnecessarily.

To clarify what is and what is not acceptable to take during pregnancy, we spoke to GP Justine Setchell.

Here she helps bust myths about pregnancy and non-prescription drugs to set out the facts:

1. Paracetamol is OK

Dr Setchell explains: “In small doses, occasional use of paracetamol in pregnancy is fine. But a lot of headaches are caused from people rushing around too much, not being hydrated enough and so on, so it’s best to try and alleviate them with rest and lots of liquids first.”

If that doesn't work, it's fine to take some paracetamol. The NHS Choices website clarifies: “Paracetamol has been used routinely during all stages of pregnancy to reduce a high temperature and for pain relief.

There is no clear evidence that it has any harmful effects on an unborn baby.”

But as with all medicine taken during pregnancy, it’s best to use the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time. In other words: only take it when you really need it. 

2. Avoid ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a different type of pain killer to paracetamol, in that it also contains decongestants that affect blood vessels. It means it could possibly increase the risk of heart problems for a baby, and reduce the amount of amniotic fluid in the womb.

“It means that pregnant women should avoid ibuprofen,” says Dr Setchell. “Women definitely shouldn’t take it after 30 weeks of pregnancy.

And before that? "They need to discuss with a GP to see if the benefits outweigh the risks.”

3. Prescribed aspirin is OK

Aspirin generally should be avoided during pregnancy. But don't necessarily be alarmed if your doctor prescribes it - it's common for GPs to suggest a low dose, as it can help reduce the risk of miscarriage in some women.

It’s why Dr Setchell suggests all pregnant women speak to their doctor when considering taking over the counter medicine.

4. Some antihistamines are fine

Dr Setchell believes that antihistamines are generally OK to take during pregnancy, though it is best to always discuss it with a pharmacist beforehand. The NHS Choices website clarifies: “You can take some oral antihistamines when you’re pregnant, but not others.”

The best options are a corticosteroid nasal spray, antihistamine eye drops and then if necessary, speak to a medical expert who may recommend an antihistamine called loratadine. If that doesn’t work, they may recommend cetirizine.